Beshara Confirms Happy Trails for 2014 Caulfield Stakes

October 7th, 2014

A standout performer over the 2013 Spring Racing Carnival, trainer Paul Beshara has confirmed he will accept a position in the final field for this weekend’s Group 1 Caulfield Stakes (2000m) for Happy Trails, despite the seven-year-old having contest the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes (2000m) last weekend.

Unlucky to finish second to Foreteller in the Group 1 Underwood Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield on September 20th, Happy Trails was rated a leading chance for success in the Turnbull Stakes last weekend, however beat only two runners home in finishing a disappointing 14th.

Found to have been dealing with dirt in his trachea following the race, Beshara said the Good Journey gelding had pulled up exceptionally well following the Turnbull Stakes, and believes another competitive hit-out is necessary prior to his major target, the featured Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m) on October 25th.

“It was nothing to worry about,” Beshara told AAP of the dirt found in Happy Trails’ trachea.

“A few of the horses had some on the day. He was boxed in and getting that thrown back at him.

“The vets came down after the race and put him on different medications which helps to get rid of it.

“It takes two or three days to get out of them. I’ll get him scoped again on Wednesday, but he should be all fine.

“After Saturday in the Turnbull he pulled up too well. It was only like a gallop for him.

“He can’t go to the Cox Plate underdone.

“He really needs a good hit-out and then it’s a fortnight to the Cox Plate.”

Partnered by Michael Rodd in each of his last three appearances on track, Beshara said connections are hopeful the acquisition of champion hoop Damien Oliver for the ride will mean the difference in a return to the winner’s circle for Happy Trails in the 2014 Caulfield Stakes.

“The owners, they like Damien,” Beshara said.

“They’ve been friends over a number of years and they want him on.”

A final field and barrier draw for the 2014 Caulfield Stakes is due to be released on Wednesday morning.

Ladbrokes.com.au is currently offering the best odds on all races at Caulfield this weekend, so be sure to open an account today to allow yourself the best possible return on the 2014 Caulfield Stakes!